Fire Chief Joseph Smegelsky Jr., 34, was arrested by state police and charged with grand larceny in the third degree, a felony.

Smegelsky's arrest stems from an audit and investigation by the comptroller's office. The investigation uncovered the alleged misappropriation of nearly $20,000 in department funds by Smegelsky.

Smegelsky, of Oswego, is charged with using the department's debit cards and credit cards to make personal purchases including guns, motorcycle equipment and items to support his personal landscaping business, according to the comptroller's office. In addition, Smegelsky claimed to have "sold" items to the department and received payment for these items that were unneeded and never used.

"This individual took advantage of his position and used public money intended to protect his community to instead buy himself guns, motorcycle parts and landscaping tools," DiNapoli said. "While my auditors and investigators work to uncover the extent of this fraud, I want to thank the New York State Police for taking steps to make sure this individual will be held accountable for his actions."

Minetto, in Oswego County, is a volunteer fire department that receives $131,840 a year from the town of Minetto for its fire service contract.

Smegelsky was arraigned in Volney Town Court by Judge Patricia Kerfien. No bail was set and his next court date is July 10 at Minetto Town Court.

DiNapoli's audit of the Minetto Fire Department is expected to be finalized this fall. The audit was requested by a fire district board member. The fire district oversees the Minetto Fire Department.